USDA Secretary Rollins Sends Letter To Forest Service Firefighters Expressing Gratitude For Their Work And Addressing The Idaho Wildfire Shootings.
This evening, USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins sent a letter to all Forest Service firefighters expressing gratitude for their hard work and addressing the Idaho wildfire shootings:
Dear U.S. Forest Service Wildland Firefighters,
I am writing today to express my deepest sympathies to you and the entire fire community after the heinous act of violence in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho last week. It is unconscionable that these brave first responders were ambushed as they courageously answered the call to protect their community.
The entire nation mourns the loss of John Morrison, Coeur d'Alene Fire Department Battalion Chief, and Frank Harwood, Kootenai County Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief. We are also praying fervently for Dave Tysdal, Coeur d'Alene Fire Department Engineer, who was severely injured and remains hospitalized. Please join me in praying for their families and loved ones.
As first responders, you all face dangerous conditions and race into harms way every single day - it is unacceptable that you will now have to worry about additional threats. Your jobs are hard enough. I have no doubt that each and every one of you have been impacted by this shocking tragedy, and I know that some of you knew these brave individuals and their families.
One of the strengths of the firefighting community is your ability to support each other. Please remember we have additional support services available as well, and I encourage you to utilize these programs if needed. I know you all are outstanding public servants and that is what makes you all the best and most capable wildland firefighters in the world. Your courage, dedication, and commitment to the American people are immeasurable. I am honored to serve alongside you and support you, especially in times like this.
Please continue to take care of yourselves, your families, and support each other. My family and I will be praying for those lost and injured, their families, and for all of you. Thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and all you do on behalf of Americans.
Secretary Brooke Rollins
THE HOTSHOT WAKE UP — Thank you to all of our paid subscribers. Your support allows us to donate generously to firefighter charities and supports all of our content. You also receive all of our article archives, more podcast episodes, Monday morning workouts, and also entered into our giveaways, plus more.
Madam Sec., please keep an open mind on candidates for your UnderSec. position, overseeing the USFS. RAY HAUPT is the top candidate for most of us with 30 years or more experience. He is now a Co. Commissioner, and was a District Ranger prior.